GMITA have reported that construction work on Ashton’s brand new Metrolink line is now officially underway.
Officials from Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority and Tameside Council witnessed the first stages of construction last week, as the initial set of earthworks along the new route from Droylsden to Ashton got underway.
The new Metrolink line is due to open in 2014 and will see trams running between Ashton town centre and Manchester City Centre and beyond every six minutes, via Droylsden town centre, Manchester City Stadium and the Manchester Velodrome.
A new Park and Ride site will also be provided, just off the motorway, at Ashton Moss.
Councillor Ian Macdonald, Chair of GMITA, said: “This is a landmark occasion in the development of this important new Metrolink line.
“The teams have been working solidly behind the scenes since the contracts for this line were signed last summer, finalising designs and getting ready for this moment.
“Now that construction has started, it is there for everyone to see: Metrolink is definitely coming to Ashton.”
Councillor Peter Robinson, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Transport and Development, said: “This marks the next stage for Tameside’s Metrolink which I am sure will bring many new visitors to not only Ashton but beyond.”
